Desiree Brassert

Here’s a twist in the Thai noodle category. If you’re a fan of these flavors, try to source the Kaffir lime (fruit and leaves) which is a fascinating ingredient. Our local “limon mandarina” makes an adequate substitute. The crunchy-chewy texture of the fried vermicelli pairs up superbly with those sweet,

Indian spices and coconut milk jazz up these little legumes superbly. In less than 15 minutes you can make a flavorful plant-based bowl of comfort packed with protein and nutrients. Any lentils can be used for this recipe, although the red ones become naturally creamy, nutty, and quick to cook.

When our local limes (limones messinos) turn yellow, preserving them in salt will deepen the flavors of this recipe. Just cut them in half lengthwise, rub with abundant sea salt and store in a jar in the fridge. You can also omit this step and use fresh, ripe limes and

The world of nachos is full of possibilities and shortcuts. However, the real game-changer is a homemade and creamy queso dip made with your best cheeses on hand. Queso dip: 8-10 portions 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped 2 cloves of garlic 1 finely sliced green onion with some of

Take these ordinary vegetables on a “drab to fab” journey with this classic Indian curry made famous by the 2002 movie “Bend it like Beckham.” Serve it with paratha flatbread or any bread, or a little basmati rice. Ingredients for 6 to 8 portions 4 tablespoons of olive, coconut, or

Records of this ancient Greek pastry date back to 300 BC. Today it is still a most beloved sweet treat throughout many Mediterranean countries and beyond. The nutritional benefits from nuts and honey, along with low-calorie filo dough make this a very healthy dessert that is surprisingly easy to put

Move over deep fryer! Here is a keto-friendly version where these baked peppers retain a mellow bite and steal the show at your next happy hour. For 24 poppers 12 green jalapeño peppers 1/2 cup of cream cheese 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder 1/2 cup of shredded taco cheese 24

Here is show stopping dish that will transport you right down the spice roads. The conical clay “tagine” can be replaced by a Dutch oven or any heavy-bottomed pot with a fitted lid. The long list of ingredients will guide you to endless possibilities of layered flavors. Don’t worry if

This Mexican stew usually calls for hominy, but I find that the kernels from our local elotes (corn) work just as well and are easier to find. Stock for 8 to 10 servings 1 kilo of pork shoulder 500 grams of pork ribs with bones 1 large yellow onion, sliced

Follow these easy steps and you’ll have a chewy, moist, wholesome snack that is full of character. By adding your choice of nuts, dried fruit or chocolate chips, this soft cookie will eclipse all others. Makes about 2 dozen Ingredients 1 cup of all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon

The odd name for this alcohol-free recipe must actually refer to that formidable craving for fiery-hot noodles while one is drinking. This is a more caramelized, saucy, spicy and vegetable-packed version of Pad Thai that can still be enjoyed with a side of chopped peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges. Ingredients

These tender and juicy kabobs are a party appetizer superstar. The key to this succulent chicken recipe is to use boneless thigh fillets (muslos deshuesados) immersed overnight in a sweet, spicy, and lemongrassy marinade. For 10-12 kabobs 1 kilo of boneless chicken thighs trimmed and cut into 1 inch chunks

This is a fun party dish that’s inspired by a Korean recipe named buldak. The spicy grilled chicken is covered with melted mozzarella and served with fresh lettuce leaves. You can replace the “gojujang” chili paste with red curry paste. Ingredients 1 lb or 500 grams of boneless chicken thighs

A fantastic way to experience the local flavors of Costa Rica, is with a cold drink and a “boca*” in a typical cantina. This particular boca recipe is said to have originated from a bar in Tibas. It is a tasty layered dip that combines soft and crunchy textures—a perfect

This epic Malaysian curried noodle soup will sweep you far, far away…to the balmy streets of Singapore. The flavorful soup base can be made with chicken, seafood, or vegetarian. This one is made with seafood, my favorite. Serves 6-8 For the fish cakes ½ kg white fish filet (snapper, mahi,